The A897 single track road is entirely within the Highland council area of Scotland.

It runs generally north from the A9 at Helmsdale to the A836 near Halladale Bridge, east of Melvich.

Helmsdale is on the east-facing North Sea coast of Britain.

Melvich is about 40 miles (64 km) away, on the north-facing Atlantic coast.

Apart from half a mile (1 km) or so within Helmsdale, the entire road is single track.